Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
The first Tranquility Jazz Festival will take place Nov. 14–16 on the British island Anguilla.
BET Jazz produced the event. Paxton Baker, States vice president for BET, hopes the lineup will attract “many of the genre’s purists.”
Opening night has a saxophone focus, featuring Bobby Watson, James Moody and Donald Harrison in separate performances. Also slotted for that evening are the Eric Reed Trio and the inaugural performance of the Anguilla Jazz Ensemble, featuring five native musicians.
Performances throughout the second day include the Hilton Ruiz Trio, trombonist Steve Turre, saxophonist Sonny Fortune, flutist Dave Valentin, vocalist Vanessa Rubin and St. Maarten’s Anastacia Larmonie Jazz Ensemble.
Aired on BET Jazz’ “Jazz in the Sun” series, the mellow conclusion of the Tranquility Jazz Fest will feature second appearances by the Anguilla Jazz Ensemble and the Anastacia Larmonie Ensemble, along with a set by the Anguilla Community Jazz Band.
Bounded by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Anguilla comprises 12,000 West African and European descendents.
For more information or tickets to the event, visit www.anguillajazz.org
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
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The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
